Thursday, November 18, 2010

Mitchell's flying foxes and creamy blossoms

The cadaghi (Corymbia torelliana) growing beside our house is so laden with blossoms that its branches are sagging under the weight. At this very minute, 20 or so flying foxes are fluttering about in the branches, squabbling and swinging from branch to branch like monkeys. They are feasting on the cream blossoms which are bursting out of their tight little caps, releasing a rich mix of nectar, pollen and scent.

Fortunately the flying foxes arrive while there is still sufficient light to bring them closer using binoculars. You can see their translucent wing membranes and the claws on their first two fingers that they use to swing from branch to branch. What amazing creatures!

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